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Instant Pot Ribs Recipe

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4.1 from 3 reviews

This Instant Pot Ribs recipe delivers tender, flavorful baby back ribs with a quick pressure cooking method followed by caramelizing BBQ sauce using an oven or air fryer. Perfectly seasoned and cooked to fall-off-the-bone perfection, these ribs are ideal for a satisfying meal in under an hour.

Ingredients

Ribs

  • 1 rack baby back ribs
  • Kosher salt, generous amount
  • Ground black pepper, generous amount

For Cooking

  • ¼ cup your favorite BBQ sauce
  • A few drops liquid smoke (optional)
  • 1 cup (250 ml) cold water or apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Prepare & Season Ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs using a paper towel for better seasoning penetration and tenderness. Generously season both sides of the ribs with kosher salt and ground black pepper.
  2. Pressure Cook Ribs: Add 2–3 drops of liquid smoke into the Instant Pot if desired for added smoky flavor. Pour 1 cup of cold water or apple cider vinegar into the pot and place a trivet inside. Lay the ribs on top of the trivet. Close the lid, turn the venting knob to sealing, and set the Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for 16 to 25 minutes depending on your preferred tenderness. Allow a full natural release before carefully opening the lid.
  3. Apply Sauce and Broil in Oven or Air Fryer: Transfer the ribs to an oven tray or chopping board and brush BBQ sauce generously over all sides. For caramelization, either broil in a preheated oven or toaster oven on the highest setting for a few minutes, or air fry using the Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid at 400°F for about 9-11 minutes per batch. If using air fryer, cut ribs into halves to fit and finish in two batches.
  4. Serve: Chop the ribs into serving-size pieces and enjoy immediately while warm and juicy.

Notes

  • Remove the membrane from the back of ribs for better texture and flavor absorption.
  • Adjust pressure cooking time from 16 to 25 minutes depending on desired tenderness.
  • Caramelizing the BBQ sauce after pressure cooking adds depth and sticky texture.
  • Broiling or air frying after pressure cooking enhances flavor and presentation.
  • Use apple cider vinegar as an alternative to water for a subtle tangy flavor.
  • Cut ribs into halves when air frying to fit the basket.
  • Let ribs rest for a few minutes after broiling for best moisture retention.